Troubleshooting Laser Engraving Problems

If the laser marking machine produces unclear marks, the problem may be with the parameter settings, the cleanliness of the equipment, or the material compatibility.Step-by-step instructions are provided on how to quickly solve problems of blurred marking by adjusting power and speed, cleaning optical lenses, and optimizing material processing, so that the marking effect can be restored to sharp clarity.

Don't rush to the repair shop! Try these three steps first.

When the markings are unclear, many experienced mechanics will say, "Don't panic, it's probably just a small problem." They'll first try to fix it themselves, saving time and money.

Look to see if the focus is right.

It's like taking a picture and having the focus off--it's the most common mistake made by beginners.If you hear a loud "sizzle" when testing a piece of scrap, or if the edges of the lines you cut are fuzzy, then check the distance between the laser head and the material.The range of focal lengths varies from one type of camera to another. You can use the manufacturer's specifications to set the distance, and then use a fixed ruler to make sure the distance is correct.

Is your lens dirty?

Last week, a customer said that the markings on his lenses were turning yellow. When we took the lenses apart, we saw that the lenses were covered with metal dust that had been floating around in the workshop.Optical lenses should be cleaned once a week with a lint-free cotton swab dipped in pure alcohol. When wiping, draw circles rather than going back and forth.Don't wipe with a paper towel, because the fibers will be even harder to remove.

They tried out the materials.

When a client couldn't get the words to show up on a reflective aluminum board, they switched to a matte aluminum board with an oxide coating and the problem was solved.Different materials like metals, plastics or ceramics are sensitive to different wavelengths of laser light. It is best to cut a small corner to do a test before engraving.

Adjusting parameters.

The perfect combination of speed and power.

If the power is turned up to the maximum, but the speed is too fast, it is like using a brush to write on paper too quickly--the result will be a blur.I suggest starting with a power of 50 % for low to medium speed. For metal materials, you need to increase the power, but for plastic you need to lower the power to avoid burning.Remember to adjust only one parameter at a time, so that you can find the best combination.

Don't underestimate the importance of spacing.

If you get stripes when you fill in a solid logo, try adjusting the fill spacing from 0.1 mm to 0.05 mm.But it is important to note that if the spacing is too small, then the processing time is increased. When mass producing, a balance point must be found.

Prevention is the best cure.

There are three things he does every week.

1. Use a compressed air gun to blow the dust off the laser head.

2. Check the water level in the cooling tank. If the water temperature exceeds 25 ° C, change the water immediately.

3. Apply lubricant to the track.

Checklist for quarterly maintenance.

Replacing the aging rubber seals.

• Calibrate the X and Y axis positioning accuracy.

• Clean the air filter.

If you encounter particularly stubborn problems, remember to take a photo of the result of the labeling and record the current parameter settings before contacting the manufacturer's technical support.Nowadays, many brands support remote guidance, and with video connections, you can be shown step by step how to operate your device. It's much more efficient than fumbling around on your own.